AboutDavid Spector Expertise I can answer questions about Quakerism and the Religious Society of Friends from a Universalist (non-Evangelical, unprogrammed) point of view, particularly questions about Quaker religious practice.
Experience I have been a practicing Friend since approximately 1998 and have been active in attending and helping to organize Friends' activities, such as retreats run by our Meeting.
Organizations I belong to I am a member of Friends Meeting at Cambridge (Massachusetts, USA).
Expert: David Spector Date: 11/13/2007 Subject: Quakers and abortion
Question In the Quaker religion when does the foetus become a person and what is the definition of a person. Also do Quakers believe that abortion is right or wrong.
Answer Rahel, Thank you for your question.
Quakerism does not define a fetus or a person, nor is it much concerned with this question. It is much more concerned with right action in accordance with God's will, particularly in the area of its corporate testimonies: peace, honesty, simplicity, and justice.
Many Quakers are opposed to abortion as a method of birth control and at the same time favor abortion in certain cases where this appears to be the most life-supporting action for the woman. However, that being said, it is only an approximate generalization, and each individual Quaker will have their own point of view.
I hope this brief answer has helped. Please feel free to submit follow up questions, if needed.
